Orthofeet Announces Mark Koide as Chief Executive Officer

NORTHVALE, N.J., Aug. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Orthofeet, the premium brand of specialty footwear biomechanically designed to provide outstanding performance and comfort for its consumers, announced today the appointment of Mark Koide as Chief Executive Officer and Rick Hynes as Chief Financial Officer. The senior executives are the first management hires since the company was acquired by an investor group led by Tuckerman Capital and Equis Capital in December 2010.

"We are excited to have Mark and Rick lead the company to our next phase of success," said Ron Bar, Ph.D., Orthofeet co-founder. "Mark and Rick have strong track records, as a team and individually, of accelerating business growth while honoring the vision of the original founders. We anticipate a smooth transition and look forward taking Orthofeet to the next level."

Mr. Koide has held executive roles in a range of business environments from top tier multinational organizations to early stage ventures. Past positions include global division president of Mars, Inc.; CEO of The Natural Dentist (a leading natural oral care company); and head of marketing at Danone, North America. Mr. Hynes has deep experience in accounting and finance, including positions at Price Waterhouse and Divisional CFO at Hallmark Cards.

Currently, the core consumers for Orthofeet footwear are primarily diabetics and other patients with foot conditions or balance-related challenges. Because the construction is based on principles of foot biomechanics, the premium footwear offers comfort and performance benefits relevant to a much wider audience.

"Rick and I were attracted to Orthofeet because of its advanced engineering, focus on quality, and the authentic compassion behind this innovative brand," said Mr. Koide. "As the diabetic patient population increases, Orthofeet is poised to grow with superior footwear alternatives that improve our consumer's quality of life by enhancing their mobility. Long-term, we hope to bring the brand's proprietary offerings to all those who demand greater performance of their footwear."

About Orthofeet

Orthofeet is the premium brand of specialty footwear biomechanically designed to provide consumers with ultimate mobility, comfort and protection for an improved quality of life. The company was established in 1985 by the Bar brothers, two biomedical engineers who pioneered innovations in footwear construction unmatched in the industry. In order to maintain its high level of quality and service, Orthofeet produces most of its products through company owned plants. Orthofeet partners with medical professionals throughout the US to provide patients with a great selection of therapeutic shoes, insoles and socks. For more information visit www.orthofeet.com.

SOURCE Orthofeet